What’s Your Palette?
A recent Facebook post about wall color from Benjamin Moore received a rush of responses. Ben asked, “What color would you NEVER use in your home?” In less than 3 hours over 4oo people weighed in with their opinion. I bet reading that question created imagery in your mind too. You know exactly what you like and don’t like, don’t you?
While color is only one element of many in a well executed space, it seems to be the first thing most clients weigh. That makes perfect sense. Color has emotion written all over it.
I find that when meeting people (and clients) they speak to me in a series of colors. It isn’t something they say, it is something I feel. I know if you are analytical you are probably thinking, of course there are clues around their home and perhaps even in their clothing choices, but I can’t help but think their is something else at work. Even in a first meeting I frequently start to see a personal color palette emerge.
My interior design work focuses on my client’s style and personality, not my own aesthetic taste. Some interiors designers have a look that clients pay them to duplicate because the look is fabulous. I think sometimes their clientele select them because their own palette is similar, or perhaps they just REALLY love that designer’s work. I design from a different place. While I encourage my clients to review design sites and magazines for their favorite spaces to seek inspiration, I encourage them not to duplicate someone else’s personal style or color palette. I don’t even know how to begin unless I can get a color formula for my clientele. (Fortunately, when my super powers don’t work my clients tell me what they like and don’t like.)
Color’s bounty is limitless, and your signature colors have a style and personality all their own. I encourage you to find yours.
So let’s play with your super powers … What colors are in my personal palette? And What color would YOU never use in your home?
Angela Todd
Owner & Principal Designer
Angela is the principal designer at her boutique interior design firm in Portland, Oregon. She is known for creating memorable backdrops that tell the story of fascinating and intricate lives.
